My Style: Tiany Kiriloff
Photo: courtesy of Tiany Kiriloff
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Paris during Fashion Week just tops it all.
Please describe your style in three words.
Eclectic, colourful, and full of risk at times.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
The only mistake you can make is not staying true to yourself, otherwise according to me you can’t go wrong at all, it’s part of finding your personal style. What is the worst that could happen? Just take a risk!
Do you believe in role models?
Sure, some people need guidance or let’s just say a little inspiration, but let it be inspiring. Don’t copy your role models.
What are your favourite fabrics?
I love natural fabrics, so silk, cashmere, and a little fur delight me!
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Nope.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I think I’m rather bold.
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
Once more, risk and experiment and try things that may be unexpected. Have fun with fashion, add some colour a little ruffle and dare to go wild at times.
Celebrities and style...
Are not always a match made in heaven, but sometimes you just bump into celebs that are adorable and do an amazing job when it comes to styling themselves.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Shoes and glasses and bags and vintage items… can I go on?
A woman should always look like...
A lady and not like a slob. I hate it when women just let themselves go and don’t put any effort in looking presentable.
Who taught you what you know about style?
My love for fashion was triggered by my mom and I started educating myself ever since. I’ve learned from books, magazines, people, the internet and just by opening my eyes and watching the world.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I have two kids and very little time in the mornings, I really don’t have time to think, but then again I’m all about mix and match, so anything goes — I guess. But still, most of the time it’s just a feeling that gets into you and says 'okay, let’s do that'!
Your biggest regret is...
Having got rid of my penguin sweater. It was vintage and belonged to my dad. I wore it so many times that I guess it had been worn out… still, I wish I would’ve kept it.
The three essential things a woman should know about style are...
It’s fun, it’s personal and it’s the perfect way of getting who you are out there.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
No, I’m like a loose canon. I end up buying overpriced goodies unexpectedly.
We will never see you wearing...
I will never say never; this is something I’ve learned through the years. I once said I’d never wear shoulder pads, and then Balmain launched a collection with nothing else. I was very sure I’d never ever wear creepers and then came this Prada collection… you get the idea. :)
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Peter Pilotto, these guys make clothes that just make you look sexy; I love prints and colours so I guess their collections would be perfect for me.
Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?
My grandmother. I just loved to watch her strut in her lovely pumps and in her ever so elegant ensembles. Also, working in fashion means that you meet so many stylish people; I really enjoy the looks of Miroslava Duma and Natalie Joos.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her shoes and perhaps, her aura.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My entire vintage collection, which is quite big…
The one image that defined your approach to style...
An image of Frida Kahlo. I love her elegancy which was opulent and colourful.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Prada keeps my heart going. I’m not saying I’d wear it all, but Miuccia is a genius. I also love Marni and enjoy Dries Van Noten and Haider Ackermann too. Ohh, I’m forgetting the amazing creations of Peter Pilotto and God knows I’d love to wear some Mary Katrantzou.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
Shoes; you can wear whatever, but if your shoes suck, than the rest is worthless.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
No, style is being comfortable in what you wear.
Who would you like to see next in My Style?
Consuelo Castiglioni and Natalie Joos.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Just do it!
